Beekeeping
Beekeeping has a very important role to play in the development of Kenya and other African countries.
Pollination is the most important but often unseen benefit. Pollination is the transfer of pollen from the male to the female part of the flower resulting in fertilization. Bees are good pollinators and many flowering plants depend on insects, such as bees, to transfer pollen. Inadequate pollination results in low yields of uneven and small fruits. It is estimated that more than 75% of the crops in warmer countries, such as Kenya, benefit from bee pollination.
The other main benefit of beekeeping is the production of products such as honey and beeswax which are a valuable source of income for small-holder farmers. Beekeeping is also a valuable source of income for pastoralist communities in Kenya's Arid and Semi Arid Lands (ASAL's). People living in ASAL's are among Kenya's poorest.
Beekeeping also has a very important role to play in protecting Kenya's natural environment and gives communities economic benefits from standing trees. As a group, beekeepers have a vested interest in protecting trees - the source of their honey.
